We are thrilled to announce the addition of a brand-new temperature-controlled van to our Meals on Wheels of Lancaster fleet! This vehicle represents an exciting step forward for our organization, enabling us to expand our reach and deliver fresh, high-quality meals even more safely and effectively across Lancaster County.
At our ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thurs 11/14/24, Executive Director Feleen Nancarvis shared a message of gratitude, recognizing the Lancaster Sunrise Rotary, whose steadfast support over the past two years made this vision a reality. The Rotary generously donated $70,000 towards the purchase of the vehicle. The funds were raised through their annual fundraiser, Fall Fest, hosted in 2022 with Meals on Wheels long-time partner, Lancaster County Motors Subaru, as the primary sponsor. We have been so fortunate to have incredible partners every step of the way. Rotary has exemplified their commitment to “service above self” by supporting us through each stage of this project. From their financial backing to their enthusiastic encouragement, Rotary members such as Patrick Kirkham, Beth Mack, and so many others have helped bring this dream to life.
This project began with a simple introduction by former Meals on Wheels board member Sandy Brightbill, who connected us with Rotary members Bill Weik and Heather Rineer. That initial meeting was the beginning of a journey that has now culminated in this much-needed addition to our fleet. Past president of the Lancaster Sunrise Rotary, Patrick Kirkham shared a few words during the ribbon cutting ceremony and had the honor of cutting the ribbon to officially celebrate the momentous occasion. “We’re delighted to see the money put to such good use,” current club President Pat Savage said. “Meals on Wheels of Lancaster does such good work and helps so many people, some in remote rural locations, who otherwise wouldn’t get a decent daily meal.”
This new van allows us to deliver meals with enhanced temperature control, which is crucial for meeting the diverse dietary needs of our clients. Our home-delivered meals program is known for providing both a bagged lunch and a hot supper tray to clients who are unable to prepare meals for themselves. Ensuring that the bagged lunches will remain chilled and the hot meals will remain hot throughout the delivery process is an incredibly important component of the work that we do. This van also aligns with our goals of geographic expansion and ensuring every delivery arrives fresh, safe, and nutritious. The vehicle will be driven by Meals on Wheels’ part-time staff driver and will operate Mon – Fri. It travels a route that is approximately 120 miles round trip starting at our primary location on Columbia Avenue and traveling to our various partners and branch locations on the North and East sides of the county (Ephrata, New Holland, Paradise, Christiana and also Parkesburg). Presently, the van delivers to an average of 150 clients per day with the capacity to grow. With this van, we’re better equipped than ever to serve our community and provide greater access to meals for those who need them most.
Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey—our generous donors, volunteers, and partners. With your help, we are making sure that no neighbor in Lancaster goes hungry. Together, we’re delivering not only meals but also a message of hope, care, and community.
The support that we need doesn’t end here! Vehicles like this require ongoing maintenance, fuel in the tank and a staff member to operate it. You, dear reader, can play a part in the success story of the new van by making a donation today to ensure that the wheels keep on rolling! Click here to make a donation now.
Lancaster Sunrise Rotary meets 7:15-8:30 a.m. Thursdays in person at Bent Creek Country Club and via Zoom video conferencing. Anyone wishing to attend should email Sunrise Rotary president Pat Savage at lancpasunriserotary@gmail.com for an invitation. New members are always welcome. For details visit www.lancastersunriserotaryofpa.com.
